Pharmaceutical companies were asked to stockpile “six weeks supply of medicines in the UK - on top of their own normal stock levels”.

And businesses that export to the EU, which include major North East employers, were encouraged to start spending money on logistics software to prepare for new trading regulations.

Jonathan Walker, assistant director at North East England Chamber of Commerce, said: “Businesses have been calling for clarity on how to prepare for Brexit for a long time and while it is disappointing these notices have not been available before now, they are a step forward.

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“The information released today illustrates clearly if we leave the EU with no deal, the significant burden in terms of administration that will fall on businesses. It also indicates the importance of getting a good deal rather than relying on contingency planning.”

Labour shadow Brexit secretary, Keir Starmer, said that publication of the papers was a sign of “panic” at failing negotiations.

Labour shadow Brexit secretary, Keir Starmer, (Image: Daily Record)

But Mr Raab said: “We have got agreement on about 80% of the issues.

“We have made clear that if negotiations don’t achieve the optimum outcome we will continue to be a responsible European neighbour and partner.”

There are 7,000 British civil servants working on Brexit, he said

The Government paper warned people or businesses using British banks providers to process payments in euros could “face increased costs and slower processing times for euro transactions.”